300CE Front brake calipers

[JohnM.]

I have read conflicting posts about the front brake calipers from a 91 300CE (also used on the E320, etc). Are they 4 piston or just 2 piston?

I plan on buying new rotors, 300CE calipers (if they are 4 piston), along with sourcing some 500E rear brakes. From what I gather, this should all be a bolt on affair?

[Ferdman]

John, the front calipers on our 1991 300CE have 4 pistons.

[ps2cho]

They are 4 pot calipers. I upgraded to them on my 260E.

Take a read here:
http://www.w124-zone.com/articles.php?article_id=30

The ONLY issue is the dust shield around the ball joint. Its not a big deal, but to do it "right" you should upgrade to the later style LCA's. I've ran mine for 6 months now and had not a single issue.

[JohnM.]

Does my 91 have the later style LCAs?

[ps2cho]

Originally Posted by JohnM.

Does my 91 have the later style LCAs?

Only cars that came with the 4pot calipers have the update. There is no need for it otherwise.

Like I said, you don't "have" to do it if you cut the dust shield. Each LCA is ~$190, so you'll save $400. With everything off, check your ball joint and make sure the rubber has not split, otherwise don't worry about it.

I think its a very worthwhile upgrade. My wagon still have the sliding caliper and I can tell a big difference in stopping power. I still haven't put the bigger rear calipers on the 260E yet either. I will when the rotors or pads need to be changed next. The front does most of the work anyway.

[mlozzi200478]

wow,thats awesome 4 piston calipers,i wasnt aware they were that advanced,does anyone know if my 89 300ce is only 2 piston or am i lucky enough to have 4?